The study identified six galloylquinic acid variants in leaves from the Atlantic Forest tree, with 3,4,5-tri-galloylquinic acid showing strong binding to the virus's spike protein.
Researchers said the compounds also inhibited papain-like protease and RNA polymerase, suggesting a multi-target antiviral effect that could lower the risk of resistance compared with single-protein treatments.
The work, involving scientists from Brazil and Egypt, highlights Brazil's biodiversity as a potential drug source, though the compound still requires in vivo testing and clinical trials before any medicine can be developed.
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Breaking Viral Resistance: Multi-Mechanism SARS-CoV-2 Inhibition by Galloylquinic Acids from Brazilian Biodiversity
Overview
A 2024 study led by Professor Jairo Kenupp Bastos discovered that galloylquinic acids (GQAs) from the Brazilian Copaiba tree have a powerful dual-antiviral effect against SARS-CoV-2. These natural compounds block the virus from entering human cells by binding to its spike protein and also inhibit viral replication by targeting key enzymes. Unlike current single-target drugs, GQAs reduce the risk of viral resistance and offer added benefits with low toxicity and immunomodulatory properties that help control harmful inflammation. However, challenges like limited in vivo data, sustainable sourcing, and regulatory hurdles mean clinical use may take 5–10 years. This breakthrough highlights Brazil's rich biodiversity as a vital resource for future pandemic defenses.